Abstract
A rugged, ergonomic integrated telecommunications handset includes an electronic controller that interoperates and controls the universal remote control (URC), which connects to multiple radios simultaneously. The controller downloads options which are implemented by the controller. The handset has an ability to vibrate in a silent mode, and has a memory capacity, as well as GPS capacity. Ergonomically, the handset has a pair of side arrays of protruding ribs, which enhance gripping, preventing the handset from falling out of the user's hands, even if the user has gloves on in inclement weather conditions in the field. While compatible with the latest radio system software defined dual net and dual channel radio equipment, the handset is also backward compatible with single radios or with two or more separate radios.
Claims
1. An integrated telecommunications handset comprising: an integrated electronic system in said handset enabling the handset to connect to multiple radios simultaneously in said handset, said integrated electronic system comprising a microphone, earphone, a volume control wheel, headset jack, first and second push to talk (PTT) buttons, said first PTT button for connection to a first radio, and said second PTT button for connection to a second radio, said first and second PTT buttons being located on one side of said handset adjacent to and spaced from each other to allow conversation on both radios simultaneously when both PTT buttons are pressed, and a single dual net connector for providing said connections; said microphone being directly connected to both said first and second PTT buttons through said connector; said volume control wheel connected to said earphone such that clockwise rotation of said volume control wheel increasing earphone volume, and counterclockwise rotation of said volume control wheel decreasing earphone volume; wherein said volume control, when rotated in one direction increases the volume in one radio and decreases volume in an adjacent radio, and vice versa; said handset having an option for a user to assert a PTT button on the first radio, the second radio or both together; wherein depression of each respective first and second PIT buttons respectively activates a respective microphone and asserts the PTT function on each said first radio and said second radio; a headphone jack with a built-in switch; wherein the earphone is muted when the headset is inserted into said headphone jack; wherein said thumbwheel volume control is connected to both said first and second radios whereby rotation in one direction increases volume for one radio and reduces volume for the other radio, with reverse rotation of the thumbwheel having opposite effects, said thumbwheel having a zero position where radio signals from both radios are equal, said thumbwheel volume control being located in a recessed portion of said handset adjacent a side of said handset opposite from said first and second PTT buttons; said handset transmitting and receiving intelligible, distortion-free voice signals to and from either said first radio, said second radio, or both thereby allowing the user to have direct access to, and converse on both radios simultaneously; said integrated electronic system including a programmable microcontroller for enabling said handset to connect to multiple radios simultaneously and control responses to a number of inputs functions including receiving and processing data from a serial port; and an LCD display driven by said microcontroller for presenting display images comprising GPS, channel positioning, audio elements such as volume level and text messaging.
2. The handset of claim 1 in which said handset meets or exceeds military performance specification MIL-PRF-49078 with H-250 style wiring.
3. The handset of claim 1, having a listen-only headset connector for either cutting the audio to an earphone or activating audio to an earphone.
4. The handset of claim 1, wherein said connectors between the handset and the two separate radios comprise a Y-branch connector.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS (continued)
(1) The present invention can best be understood in connection with the accompanying drawings. It is noted that the invention is not limited to the precise embodiments shown in drawings, in which:
(2) FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of the integrated telecommunications handset, shown in an open position;
(3) FIG. 2 is a rear elevational view of the integrated telecommunications handset;
(4) FIG. 3 is a left side elevational view of the integrated telecommunications handset;
(5) FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the integrated telecommunications handset;
(6) FIG. 5 is a right side elevational view of the integrated telecommunications handset;
(7) FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the integrated telecommunications handset;
(8) FIG. 7 is a front elevational view of the of the integrated telecommunications handset, shown in a closed position;
(9) FIG. 8 is a rear elevational view of the integrated telecommunications handset;
(10) FIG. 9 is a left side elevational view of the integrated telecommunications handset;
(11) FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the integrated telecommunications handset;
(12) FIG. 11 is a right side elevational view of the integrated telecommunications handset;
(13) FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the integrated telecommunications handset;
(14) FIG. 13 is a right frontal perspective view of another embodiment of the integrated telecommunications handset, shown in an open position and highlighting many of the functional features enabled by the inventive electronics system housed therein;
(15) FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of the FIG. 13 embodiment highlighting user activated switches for controlling several functional features enabled by the inventive electronics system housed therein;
(16) FIG. 15 is a left frontal perspective view of the of the FIG. 13 embodiment, shown in closed position and highlighting several functional features enabled by the inventive electronics system housed therein;
(17) FIG. 16A is a front elevational view of another embodiment of the integrated telecommunications handset in a closed position;
(18) FIG. 16B is a right rear perspective view of the FIG. 16A embodiment in a closed position;
(19) FIG. 17A is a front elevational view of another embodiment of the integrated telecommunications handset in an open position;
(20) FIG. 17B is an enlarged view of a recessed membrane PTT (push to talk switch) depicted in the FIG. 17A embodiment;
(21) FIG. 17C is an enlarged view of a recessed and guarded on-off volume switch for an external speaker microphone in the FIG. 17A embodiment;
(22) FIG. 17D is a left frontal perspective view of the FIG. 17A embodiment open in an ergonomically-correct position;
(23) FIGS. 18A, 18B and 18C are front, side and front perspective views of an embodiment of the integrated telecommunications handset configured a one rigid piece for ready and secure mounting upon head gear, e.g., a helmet, worn by a handset user;
(24) FIG. 19 is a block diagram depicting one embodiment of an electronic system included in the integrated telecommunications handset;
(25) FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a fully featured radio handset of this invention with some functional information about the features and controls;
(26) FIG. 21 is a dimensioned front as well as right and left side elevations of the radio handset of FIG. 20;
(27) FIG. 22 is an internal schematic of a radio handset configured as an H-250 single channel replacement;
(28) FIG. 22A is a front and two side elevations of the radio handset of FIG. 22 with functional flow chart;
(29) FIG. 23 is an internal schematic of a fully featured single PTT radio handset;
(30) FIG. 23A is a front and two side elevations of the radio handset of FIG. 23 with functional flow chart;
(31) FIG. 24 is an internal schematic of a Y-Branch radio handset;
(32) FIG. 24A is a functional flow chart of the radio handset of FIG. 24;
(33) FIG. 25 is an internal schematic of a field phone handset;
(34) FIG. 25A is a front and two side elevations of the field phone handset of FIG. 25 with functional flow chart;
(35) FIG. 25B is a Pin Out schematic diagram of the connector of FIGS. 25 and 25A;
(36) FIG. 26 is an internal schematic of a fully featured dual net radio handset; and
(37) FIG. 26A is a front and two side elevations of the radio handset of FIG. 26 with functional flow chart.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
(38) The following is a detailed description of example embodiments of the invention depicted in the accompanying drawings. The example embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the invention and are designed to make such embodiments obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention, as defined by the appended claims.
(39) For illustrative purposes only, a preferred mode for carrying out the invention is described herein, wherein an integrated telecommunications handset includes ruggedized ergonomic features making it versatile to use and integrates and utilizes multiple field compatible electronics-based functions, including coordination of multiple radio channels and various other features.
(40) FIGS. 1-12 present various views of foldable embodiment of an integrated telecommunications handset (10) of the invention that is foldable, FIGS. 18A-C present views of a rigid embodiment of the handset (10′″) and FIGS. 20-26A present views of the embodiments for dual channel and dual net radio handsets and capabilities.
(41) As can be seen in FIGS. 1-12, the integrated telecommunications handset (10) of the present invention includes ruggedized ergonomic features making it versatile to use. For example, opposite fringed arrays (12) of rounded protruding nibs (14) make it easy to use the handset (10) with gloves on in inclement weather, i.e., with improved gripability. Additionally, the arrays (12) of nibs (14) on each on each side of the handset housing render it less likely that the handset will slip out of the user's hand. A keyboard (16) is provided for input from a user and is accessible and a flat top (18) permits the handset to stand inverted on a table.
(42) The integrated telecommunications handset is foldable about a hinge (20) and includes a first foldable portion (22) having an earpiece (24) at the distal top. An electronic visual display (26) is included for displaying images to a user. The electronic visual display is located between the earpiece and the dialing keyboard (16), which dialing keyboard located adjacent to the hinge (20). While the keyboard is included for dialing, it is not limited to dialing, but may be used to input any information content in various modes of operation, to be described in greater detail below. A second foldable portion (28) is shorter that the first foldable portion (22), and includes a mouthpiece (30) with a microphone (32) at a lower distal area thereof The handset (10) includes sound-producing amplifiers (not shown in FIGS. 1-12 or 18A-C). These sound producing amplifiers allow the handset's use as a receiver. The mouthpiece (30) and entire second foldable portion (28) folds over a lower area of the upper portion (22), as readily seen inn the view of FIG. 7, while leaving the earpiece (24) exposed. A clip (21) is included for clipping the handset (10) to a user's clothing, or other material or device for ready access.
(43) FIGS. 13-17 display an integrated telecommunications handset (10′), which is modification of handset (10). FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of the handset (10′) in an open position. The inventive integrated telecommunications handset, e.g., handset (10′), includes various functional features that are enabled by an electronics system that is housed with the handset housing. These functional elements and their operation are now described with reference to FIGS. 13-17.
(44) A top interface connector or port (34) is shown disposed within flat top surface (18) of the handset, which connector port functions as a data/video upload download interface for data and video transmission. The connector (34) may comprise various forms in order to facilitate the data transfer to/from the handset, e.g., USB, RS232, etc., without limitation. Also included in the handset is a built-in wireless interface (36), dual push-to-talk (PTT) switches (38), an earphone speaker (40), having dynamic or balanced armature capability, within earpiece (24) and mouthpiece microphone (32). The earphone speaker is dynamic or balanced armature, where the microphone is electret capable, to enable sound output and input, respectively. Active display screen (26) provides for communicating visual messages to the user. The active display screen is preferably a liquid crystal display, but is not limited thereto.
(45) The integrated telecommunications handset (10′) includes a standard 12-button keypad (16′) is GSM-capable, IP or VoIP functional ad DTMF tone operational. Preferably, as shown, the handset (10′) includes an emergency call tone generation feature (42) for situations in which speaking is not optional, for example, a battlefield operation. For that matter, the handset includes a silent mode notification (vibration) indicator (44), for receiving incoming communications. The embodiment further includes a GPS module (46) for location/position verification. Moreover, one of the dual PTT switches may be replaced with a personal locator beacon (PLB), which would operate in coordination with a GPS locator (not shown) to send out the location of the handset to rescuers where necessary. The integrated telecommunications handset (10′) is preferably configured with at least 1 Gigabyte of user memory (50), but the amount may be varied for various handset applications.
(46) FIG. 14 depicts a rear elevational view of the integrated telecommunications handset (10′) in order to highlight a VOX On/Off switch (52), a 3 position gain control switch (54) and wireline feature. Integrated telecommunications handset (10′) includes a connector (56) extending out of the second portion (28′). Connector 56 connects the internal electronics to a wire (58) that terminate in a second connector (60), for connection to a radio (e.g., a man-pack unit), or to multiple radios simultaneously via the multiple download option. Clip (21) is included for affixing the handset (10′) to a user's clothing, a piece of equipment carried by the user, or a stationary object.
(47) FIG. 15 depicts a left frontal perspective view of the of the FIG. 13 integrated telecommunications handset (10′), in a closed position. The handset (10′), as shown, includes an interface port (54) for in-ear devices (not shown in FIG. 15), and highlights the ergonomic gripability of the nib arrays (14), including a nib-like extension (56) upon which the PTT switch (38) sits in cooperation with the ribs (14). The speaker microphone (32), preferably displaying electret capability, is included in the back of the handset is disposed in the front of the device when in a closed position.
(48) FIG. 16A is a front elevational view of another embodiment of the integrated telecommunications handset (10′) in a folded/closed position, highlighting speaker microphone (32), which is operational when folded/closed. As described above, the handset is small, for example, about four (4) inches when in a folded/closed position, and weighs preferably 10 ounces or less without cable. The handset is watertight for at least 30 minutes at 1 meter.
(49) FIG. 16B shows the embodiment from a right rear perspective closed position to highlight the belt/vest clip option (21), and auxiliary I/O port and termination the specification of which is optional to coordinate with particular use/radio applications.
(50) FIG. 17A is a front elevational view of another embodiment of the integrated telecommunications handset (10′) in an open position. The FIG. 17A embodiment highlights the optional wireless capability (60), optional keypad and character display (16), recessed membrane push-to-talk (PTT; 38), recessed and guarded on-off volume switch for an external speaker microphone, and speaker microphone (38′). The recessed membrane PTT (38) and guarded on-off volume switch (38′) are shown enlarged in FIGS. 17B and 17C, respectively. As such, the embodiment provides the option of having the push-to-talk (PTT) button on one side and the volume control button on the other side being recessed within the little protective walls, sort of like a crater. The FIG. 17D is a left frontal perspective view of the FIG. 17A handset (10′), highlighting its open, ergonomically-correct position/operation.
(51) FIG. 17D highlights the arrays of protruding nibs (or ribs), included both to enable the user to operate while wearing gloves but also for a more tactile grip (smooth surface might slip, especially when wet). For that matter, the rib arrays on the upper keyboard and earpiece potion above the hinge are in positional register and match the corresponding arrays of protruding nibs on the lower mouthpiece portion below the hinge when the handset is in the closed position. This enables the handset with the earpiece exposed for PTT function to operate like a walkie talkie or, for example, a Nextel phone. A personal locator beacon PLB operates with the GPS feature to send out a location signal to rescuers.
(52) FIGS. 18A, 18B and 18C are front, side and front perspective views of an alternative embodiment of the integrated telecommunications handset (10″) that is configured in a single rigid piece construction, for ready and secure mounting upon head gear, e.g., a helmet, worn by a handset user. The FIG. 18A view highlights the handset ability to connect to an earpiece (24). Earpiece (24) includes a wire (25) and connector (27), which connector (27) plugs into and mates with connect/port (54). Handset (10″) is rigid, as distinguished from handsets (10; 10′), which are foldable. That is, mouthpiece portion (28′) is not foldable. While handle (10″) is rigid, and therefore larger in length than handsets (10; 10′) when in their folded/closed positions, the rigid fixed length is beneficial in its ability to be reliably affixed to a helmet arranged to receive it (helmet not shown).
(53) The FIG. 18B view highlights one definition of an angle at which mouthpiece portion (28′) extends from an axial center of the main housing of handset (10″). FIG. 18C is a perspective view of a wireline embodiment of handset (10″), including wire (58), which handset (10″) may also be configured for wireless operation.
(54) FIG. 19 is a block diagram depicting one embodiment of an integrated electronics system (100), which may be included in the integrated telecommunications handsets of the invention. The integrated electronics system (100) enables the handset to connect to multiple radios simultaneously; to function with voice activation capability; to function as a speaker microphone; to function as a data/video upload download interface to radio for transmission to the network; to operate a standard 12-button keypad and operate an active display, i.e., accepting touch user inputs in some models. The optional electronics provides wireless radio interface, and wireless telecommunications ability (GSM capable). Preferably, the radio option includes a URC capability, operating with a Zigbee or other platform format. For that matter, the electronics enable the handset to automatically match radio input impedances, and receive multiple download configurations. The handset electronics will operate with an interface port for in-ear devices, DTMF tone generation, silent mode notification (vibration), automatic gain control, IP based functionality.
(55) The physical speaker capability is dynamic or balanced armature. The ergonomic design enables use with gloved hands. For that matter, the handsets weigh less than 1 lb. with cable, as wholly user (field) configurable, disposable and may be produced in any color options in durable polycarbonate. For that matter, the handsets are Mil-STD-810 tested and certified; EMI/EMP hardened, and can by GPS enabled for location/position verification. Preferably, each includes up to 1 gigabyte embedded user memory, and operates with a small electronic signal footprint to facilitate squad level communications when used for military purposes. A versatile phase-locked loop in the optional electronics allows the device to operate at various frequencies, up to and exceeding GSM. The handset is waterproof to 3 meters (for a limited time) and includes emergency call tone generation for situation where talking is not an option. For that matter, the handset can be TEMPEST certified with radio systems.
(56) The heart of the electronic operation is the programmable microcontroller (110). The invention, however, is not limited to a programmable microcontroller per se, but may be controlled by discrete electronics and/or a microprocessor. When controlled by a microprocessor, the microprocessor is operated in accordance with a set of computer readable instructions (e.g., a software application) instructions that operates/implements each of the following features in cooperation hardware elements.
(57) That is, the microprocessor or programmable microcontroller (110) control(s) responses to a number of various inputs functions (111). Input functions (111) include voice activation (VOX) hardware (112), receives and processes data from serial (I/O) port (114), Optional keypad function (116), and push-to-talk (PTT) function (118). The optional keypad function cooperates with DTMF encoder/decoder and A/D conversion function (120), which cooperates with GPS functionality (122). The push-to-talk (PTT) function cooperates with microphone (124), filters and AGC (128). In the case of a microprocessor, the microprocessor operates by a set of computer readable instructions comprising a handset operational application program. In a case of an embedded control system or a memory programmable controller (discussed below in more detail), the functional element hardware is directly connected to the embedded control system or memory programmable controller in order that it may respond without delay normally associated with a microprocessor driven application programs.
(58) Cellular electronics (132) cooperates with programmable microcontroller (110), keypad (116) and DTMF function (120), driving vibration function (134) as part of the integrated electronics system (100). As indicated in FIG. 19, various drivers may be included to implement the actual microcontroller control. LCD display (136) is shown to be controlled (driven) via microcontroller (110), which presents display images comprising GPS, channel positioning, audio elements such as volume level and text messages/messaging control modes (represented by block (138)). Encryption function (140) provides for the encryption of video, voice and other data exchanged between the microcontroller (110) and a wireless interface (142) and an impedance matching/voltage biasing function/device, for handset wireline functioning.
(59) A user audio function (146) outputs audio to received audio channels, including streaming audio. The audio data is provided to/from transceiver (152). The audio may be sampled and provided to a listening device by in-ear function (150). All functions, while described for operation in one direction, are operation in both directions. The hardware elements that may comprise/cooperate with the identified functions discrete or monolithic. Preferably, the system is integrated on a single board, or a single ASIC.
(60) According to the invention, many of the functions controlled by the integrated electronics system are time critical, in view of the fact that every second counts for users of the handset under combat conditions. In view of same, the programmable microcontroller 110 is preferably an embedded control system or a memory programmable controller, known for use in providing and controlling time-critical functions. A memory programmable controller is an electronic controller utilized to implement very specific and time critical operations. The memory programmable controller has input and output interfaces directly connected to the hardware elements and components above-described, and shown in FIG. 19. The controller is programmed specifically to control the input data of the time-critical functions.
(61) Alternatively, the programmable microcontroller 110 may be an embedded computer system that is driven by firmware include in a ROM (read- only memory) located as part or connected directly to programmable controller 110, e.g., a flash ROM. Such an embedded controller system will also have RAM (random access memory), e.g., as static RAM. In comparison to conventional computer systems found in conventional handsets, embedded systems more quickly and efficiently process time-critical applications.
(62) As can be seen in FIGS. 20-26A, an embodiment of a radio handset 200 of the invention is shown in block diagram FIG. 20 with microphone 210, earphone 211, volume control wheel 212, headset jack 213, PTT 1 button 214, PTT 2 button 215 and connection cable 216. Pushing PTT 1 button 214 asserts a Push to Talk function on a radio channel or first net channel. Pushing PTT 2 button 215 asserts a Push to Talk function on a second radio channel or second net channel. Therefore connection cable 216 can be connected to a dual channel/net radio.
(63) Preferably, clockwise rotation of the volume control wheel 212 increases earphone volume, and counterclockwise rotation of the volume control wheel 212 decreases earphone volume. In this embodiment, the user has the option asserting PTT on a first net, a second net or both together at the same time. Radio handset 200 transmits and receives intelligible, distortion-free voice signals, without interference. Ear impedance is preferably 1000 ohms and microphone impedance is preferably 150 ohms in the embodiment shown. The handset 200 meets or exceeds military performance specification MIL-PRF-49078 (H-250 style wiring). High actuation force limits accidental keying in the field.
(64) The dimensions of handset 200 are shown in FIG. 21. Note the thin dimension (0.69″) of earphone 211 in the right elevation; this enables convenient communications with a helmet on. Also shown is helmet clip 217 attached to the housing of handset 200; this is conveniently handled with one gloved hand. Helmet clip 217 can attach to uniform clothing pockets, to a belt or to equipment. Other ergonomic elements relate to the edge mounted volume control 212 and generous color-coded PTT momentary push buttons 214 and 215; these features can also be operated with gloves on.
(65) Various species of radio handset 200 are formed to serve particular markets, as shown in FIGS. 22, 22A, 23, 23A, 24, 24A, 25, 25A, 25B, 26 and 26A.
(66) Handset 201 (see schematic diagrams of FIG. 22 and FIG. 22A) is backwards compatible with the H-250 handset for a single channel radio. Note that low noise microphone cable 216 with tinsel wire shield and conductor, and super flexible vulcanized rubber insulation is used in all variations. Handset 201 has a single radio connector 220 and one PTT switch 214. Depressing the PTT button 214 activates microphone 211 and asserts the PTT function on the radio through single radio connector 220. Handset 201 transmits and receives intelligible, distortion-free voice signals.
(67) FIGS. 23 and 23A show a fully featured single radio (or channel) handset 202 with a single PTT button 214, connector 220, volume control 212, and headset jack 213. Handset 202 has a sensitivity of −56 dBm MIN at 1000 Hz and 28 dynes per square centimeter. Distortion is less than 5% between 100 Hz and 3500 Hz. A 3.5 mm headphone jack 213 with a built-in switch is provided, and the earphone mutes when the headset is inserted. Thumbwheel 212 controls volume. Handset 202 transmits and receives intelligible, distortion-free voice signals.
(68) FIGS. 24 and 24A show a Y-Branch Radio handset 203 with a Y-branch connector having two branch connectors 220 to connect to two separate radios, two momentary PTT buttons 214 and 215 (each preferably connected to respective separate radios A and B), a volume control 212, and headset jack 213. Handset 203 operates with two radios, with a two channel radio or with a single channel radio. It should be noted that rotating thumbwheel volume control 212 increases the volume of radio A while simultaneously decreasing the volume of radio B. Rotation in an opposite direction does the opposite. Optionally, both radios A and B can be heard equally. For example, when the thumbwheel volume control rotation is a 0 degrees, radio signals from radios A and B are equal. Each radio A and B utilizes respective U-329 style 6-pin connectors. A listen-only headset connector can be connected, which can either cut the audio to an earphone or activate audio to an earphone. Handset 203 transmits and receives intelligible, distortion-free voice signals.
(69) FIGS. 25, 25A and 25B show a minimally configured dual net handset 204 with a single dual net connector 221 and two PTT buttons 214 and 215. The two PTT buttons operate similar to the two PTT buttons 214 and 215 of FIGS. 24 and 24A. A hot microphone can be always active with handset 204 for use with field phones. The handset 204 meets or exceeds military performance specification MIL-PRF-49078A (H-350 style wiring), as compared to headsets 200, 201, 202 and 203, which meet or exceed military performance specification MIL-PRF-49078 (H-250 style wiring). Connector 216 is a U-329/u 6 pin connector. Handset 204 transmits and receives intelligible, distortion-free voice signals.
(70) FIGS. 26 and 26A show a fully configured dual net handset 205 with single dual net connector 221, volume control 212, headset jack 213, and momentary PTT buttons 214 and 215, each connectable to a respective Net A or Net B of a dual net radio. Handset 205 is different from handset 203 in FIGS. 24 and 24A showing handset 203 with a Y-branch connector for connecting to two separate radios A and B. The handset 205 meets or exceeds military performance specification MIL-PRF-49078 (H-250 style wiring). Connector is a U-329 style 6 -pin connector. Handset 205 transmits and receives intelligible, distortion-free voice signals.
(71) In the foregoing description, certain terms and visual depictions are used to illustrate the preferred embodiment. However, no unnecessary limitations are to be construed by the terms used or illustrations depicted, beyond what is shown in the prior art, since the terms and illustrations are exemplary only, and are not meant to limit the scope of the present invention. For that matter, modifications may be made to the present invention as described without departing the scope of the invention.
